Local Guide ConnectLive Applying Procedure
If you want apply for the Connect Live 2020 need to follow the following steps to check whether you are eligible or not.
Applications for Connect Live 2020 will 3rd march 2020. Applications will close on March 30 (at 8:00 pm GMT to be exact). if you’re Level 5+ (or you can use that time to reach Level 5).
Everything you need to know about applying for this year’s event can be found in this announcement, but I know Local Guides love information, so here are five steps you should take to submit the best application possible:
- Record a one-minute video in English. Keep these tips and the YouTube Help Center handy.
- Share a link to a new Connect post responding to one of the 2020 application prompts. New to Connect? We have everything you need to know outlined in this post.
- Create a List on Google Maps using these examples for inspiration.
- Visit the Connect Live 2020 website to apply (after logging into your Local Guides account).
- Complete all the questions carefully and in English and submit your application.
We can’t wait to review your applications! Ready to apply? Visit the official Connect Live 2020 application site to get started. When you’re done, don’t forget to share your excitement on your favorite social channels using #localguidesconnect!
Recording One Minute Video Tips:
In order to apply for Connect Live, you need to submit a 60-second video answering one of the prompts below. We’ve linked to real-life examples for each prompt to help you. Below, we break down the checklist we used to create these examples:
- Show or tell us about your favorite place on Google Maps and explain what makes it special
- Tell us how you discovered the Local Guides program and how it has impacted your life
It’s normal to feel awkward recording yourself. You may also worry that this part of the application requires skills that are outside of your comfort zone. So, in addition to creating example videos, we teamed up with our senior content strategist and video producer, @MollyMo, to create a Connect Live 2020 application video tips.
Select a video prompt
This year, we’re giving Local Guides two video prompts from which to choose. Select only one prompt and keep your response to approximately 60 seconds without going over. Choose the prompt that you feel most comfortable answering. Do not try to answer both prompts.
Assess your surroundings
An ideal background is clean and pleasant. Lighting is important and natural light works best. Position yourself looking toward the source of light to ensure the lighting on you is bright and casts an even spread across your face.
Set the scene
We recommend filming in landscape. Your smartphone or device should be positioned horizontally instead of vertically to maximize the screen space. Position yourself at the center of the frame. If you’re using a smartphone, tapping where your face is on the screen before recording ensures you’re in focus. Make sure your camera is steady.
Quiet on set
Select a quiet location and be sure that there is no background noise to distract from what you’re saying in the video. Keep this in mind even if you are in an outside location and be mindful of the wind.
Be yourself: no bells and whistles required!
We’re looking for creative prompt responses that give us a glimpse into who you are. Don’t worry about adding music, sound effects, video transitions, or graphics. You must appear on camera, speak in English, and answer one prompt, but do so in your own way! We’ll be watching thousands of videos, so think about how you might stand out from the crowd and play to your strengths. You should also wear something comfortable that makes you feel confident.
Submit your video carefully
Wonderful applicants have been disqualified because video links were submitted incorrectly. The YouTube link you submit can be listed or unlisted. Be sure to paste the link once the video is posted, not the link created while the video is still processing in production because that link cannot be viewed by anyone but you. While your video may be listed or unlisted, it cannot be viewed by the application review committee if it’s set to private. If you've never submitted a video before, log into YouTube with your gmail account and hit "Upload Video" in the upper right hand corner of the page to get started.
We’ve previously shared how to use lists to make life easier and recently featured some of our favorite lists on Connect, but now we’re getting back to basics. Whether you need a refresher on best practices or you’re new to the world of lists on Google Maps, you’ll find everything you need to know below.
How do I make a list on Google Maps?
On mobile, open the Google Maps app. Tap the Saved tab along the bottom, and then Lists. In the bottom right, tap Add Plus. Enter a name and description. Tap Save. Using a computer? Visit maps.google.com then click Menu > Your places > Saved. In the bottom right, click Add. Enter a name and description. Click Save. You can find a full breakdown of how to see, edit, and complete your lists here. You should also ensure that you make your list public if this is something you want to share.
What privacy setting should I use for my Connect Live list?
For Connect Live applications, we need to be able to see your lists in order to consider your submission. You should set your list to "anyone with the link can view" or to public. To do so, click Share list and then choose How to Share. Be sure to click Get link. To decide how easy your list is to find, click Sharing options.
What makes a “good” list?
Lists on Google Maps should include a theme, an informative title, and a helpful description. The best lists include between five and 15 places and comments about each place on the list.
What should my theme be?
Get creative! If you’re stumped, review your Google Maps activity for inspiration and think about your passions. Do you love visiting movie locations when you travel? Will you always try onion rings at every restaurant you visit? Is it your mission to update Google Maps with accessibility information? We’ve found that Local Guides who truly care about their list themes create better lists.
Are list titles important?
Yes. You only have a few moments to capture someone’s attention, so make them count. We love descriptive titles that inspire others to click. If you have trouble thinking of a title, try describing exactly what’s in your list. Example
Do I really have to write something about each place?
We recommend including personalized descriptions that will help others make decisions. Do not copy and paste directly from the internet. We want you to give us your unique spin on why you love the places on your list. Plus, it’ll encourage others to read through to see your full review.
How many places should I include on a list?
While there are no strict rules on this, we recommend including between five and 15 places in a list.